Bake The Pain Away

Early in the morning and I can't sleep.

My heart and mind are heavy.

No desire to put on a smile today.

Yet it's always expected from me.

Scrolling online to find a distraction

A post catches my eye.

A dessert so sticky and sweet.

I need to give it a try.

The kitchen is quiet.

Morning rays shining through.

I get out measuring cups and bowls,

Motivated to make something new.

Eggs, flour, butter and spices.

The nutty smell of cocoa.

Sugar and butter on the stove,

Melting low and slow.

The dough I made,

I knead it.

Minute after minute,

My hands feel it.

All trayed up and in the oven,

I sit back and wait.

30 minutes on the clock.

Anxious to see the final state.

Next to me,

My phone rings.

Messages begin to pop up on the screen.

Reminds me of all my least favourite things.

I frown and get teary.

Yesterday's memories come flooding back.

Every bad name they called me.

It's enough to make me crack-DING!

My creation is ready,

Mmmm, smells so good.

Will my brother like some?

Yeah, I think he would.

I call him from the living room.

Little cutie is still in his pajamas.

One look at the tin in my hand,

Eyes wide he cheered, "Chocolate babkas!"

This is what I love.

Genuine smiles praising my passion.

This is my is my gift.

And I'm loved the way I am.

I may not be the bravest, prettiest or smartest,

But I don't give a damn.

My brother hugs me and says,

"I love when you're home. After we eat, wanna play?"

I nodded as my chest grew warm.

I can always count on baking the pain away.